Despite a clear calendar free from European commitments, Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is driving his squad through an intense and relentless training schedule, a clear signal of his long-term ambitions for the club.
A Relentless Weekly Regime
According to a report from The Times, the absence of midweek European fixtures has not translated into extra rest for the United players. Instead, Amorim has them working actively for six days each week. Monday is the squad's only designated day off, and it has been reported that on just a single occasion has the Portuguese boss granted his team an additional day of rest.
This rigorous approach underscores Amorim's determination to elevate the team's performance levels following a disappointing previous campaign. The demanding schedule is also tailored to help the players fully grasp his unique tactical system, a philosophy to which he remains completely committed.
Hands-On Coaching Methods
In a revealing insight into his coaching style, Amorim has explained that he prefers a practical, on-pitch approach to instruction over lengthy video analysis sessions. Having been a professional player himself, he believes concentration wanes during extended video reviews.
"I was a football player. Videos more than 12 minutes? Forget! Because they lose concentration," Amorim stated. "Instead of video, we do it like walking – and jogging – it’s a way to do it. Showing some video." This method involves him physically positioning players during training walks and jogs to impart his tactical requirements.
Building for a European Future
The heavy workload strongly suggests that Amorim is already preparing his squad for the anticipated return of European football, a primary target for this season. While rivals like Chelsea, Newcastle, Tottenham, Aston Villa, and Liverpool are juggling Premier League and European commitments, United are using their free midweeks for intensive preparation.
This could provide a significant fitness advantage during the latter stages of the season. United's failure to qualify for the Champions League, after losing the Europa League final to Tottenham, is seen by Amorim as a blessing in disguise. He has publicly expressed that the team was not ready for the rigours of Europe's top competition.
"I think we were not prepared to play Europe," he said earlier this season. "That is my feeling; to have strong games in the Champions League and to play Premier League we need time to develop as a team."
Amorim's vision is clear: use this season to build a solid foundation, perfect his system, and ensure Manchester United are fully equipped to compete on all fronts in the future.
